Investing in the future – AFMA fisheries manager selected for national seafood industry leadership program
We are happy to announce that one of the Australian Fisheries Management Authority’s (AFMA) Senior Management Officers, Rachel Downes, has been successful in securing a place in the 2024 National Seafood Industry Leadership Program (NSILP).
Commencing in May 2024, the six-month program is funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation.
The program is the only national industry-specific leadership program for the seafood industry and has been developed in consultation with, and feedback from, industry. It focuses on building a range of practical skills that participants can apply at a personal, business, and national organisation industry level.
The skills, experience, and relationships developed during the leadership program are particularly relevant for AFMA staff. Fisheries management teams are responsible for consulting on and then developing and implementing management arrangements for Commonwealth fisheries that pursue AFMA’s legislative and organisational objectives. Having a sound understanding of the industry is critical to fisheries management.
Participation in the leadership program provides Rachel with the opportunity to connect with industry decision-makers and develop industry networks.
Rachel Downes, Senior Management Officer, was thrilled to be selected for the program.
“I applied for the program to develop my leadership skills and meet my peers in the seafood community.
“The program has also been a fantastic opportunity to meet other women in the seafood industry, especially members of the Women In Seafood Australasia (WISA) and learn about their experiences.
“I’ve had opportunities to develop leadership and team-building skills in a supportive environment, and I’ve been able to build confidence to take on roles that are outside of my comfort zone. I’m excited to continue learning through the program.
“Making connections with my peers in industry, government, and private businesses, sharing our ideas across the seafood community, and developing a shared understanding of the industry has been truly valuable. I have been welcomed and encouraged to share my insights from AFMA’s perspective.
“I will be able to put into practice the skills, knowledge, and perspectives I’ve learned throughout the program to my day-to-day role and AFMA more broadly.”
AFMA encourages all staff to consider applying for the leadership program.
“AFMA has supported me through funding the program, travel, accommodation, and the opportunity to complete the program while continuing my work.”